First Wedding

How completely adorable are these two?! Elise sent me these photos of her and her husband toasting with their NS Pottery latte mugs at their wedding reception. As far as I know, this is the first wedding that the business has been a part of, which is so exciting! I love that not only were these latte mugs part of such an important day in Elise and Joel's life, but they continue to be used and can be a continual reminder of the day they committed themselves to each other and said "I do."

Thanks, Elise, for making NS Pottery part of your special day! Wishing you and Joel a lifetime of love and blessings!

Big Giveaway Fundraiser

Today I'm excited to help host a giveaway in honor of Nick and Jessi Connonlly who packed up their home and four adorable kiddos two weeks ago to plant a church in Charleston, SC. I heard both Jessi and Nick speak at the Influence Conference last fall, and their passion for Christ and sharing the Gospel is so evident. If you read Jessi's blog, you've probably fallen in love with her and her sweet family, and if you don't read it, I suggest you hop on over and get to know her! You won't regret it.

In order to accomplish all that the Lord has called them to do through Gospel Community of Charleston, the Connolly's have a lot of funds to raise, so we as shop owners have combined forces to help them do just that. 
One lucky winner will receive all the items below- valued over $450! 
Just follow the directions in the Rafflecopter to enter and help support the Connolly's as they follow Christ in Charleston.

 clockwise from the top

She Does Justice: Scarf & Headband set in a new never seen print

Melody Joy Designs: Nest Necklace or Ring

One Simple Red Stitch: Crayon Roll

Handmade by Hilary: Pink Chevron Clutch

The Tiny Twig: No Brainer Blog & The No Brainer Wardrobe. 

 clockwise from the top

 Better Life Bags:  Brynnda Bag

Mrs Pate Makes: Light Blue Earrings

Beautiful Beloved: Chambrey Srey Winn Bag

Influence Network: 5 Classes (winners choice)

Worship Artist: Scripture Doodle Print

Jessica N Designs: "Hello Love" Hand Stamped Vintage Coffee Spoon

NS Pottery: Stoneware Latte Mug in Mint Green

a Rafflecopter giveaway

entries open to all. 

each donated item will be shipped to the winner by the shop that donated

every $5 dollar donation to Gospel Community is an additional entry

no purchase necessary.

Thanks so much for your support for Gospel Community of Charleston! Be sure to check out all the fabulous shops that have donated!

Oven Roasted Vegetables

This vegetable medley of broccoli, red bell peppers, and carrots has become my go-to when I need a side dish with hamburgers or grilled chicken- so easy, healthy, and delicious. It's perfect for summer when fresh, local vegetables are readily available. Be sure to roast the mixture until some of the pieces start turning brown for a sweet, caramelized flavor. Mmm Mmm- vegetable candy ;)

OVEN ROASTED VEGETABLES (serves 4)
- one head of broccoli, cut into small pieces
- one red bell pepper, cut into one-inch pieces
- 4 large carrots, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 2 TB. olive oil
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper

In a large mixing bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place vegetables on a baking sheet and roast at 400° for 30-40 minutes or until starting to brown, stirring every 10-15 minutes.  

If you happen to have any leftovers, they are wonderful lightly fried up in a skillet and served with eggs for breakfast. Grab a fork and enjoy!

It Takes Time

I've been working in the garden a lot lately. My dad built raised beds for our perennial border in the front of the garden a year ago, and we're just getting around to replanting the beds. I love shopping for seeds and plants and watching things grow, but sometimes I wish everything would just be full grown and blooming or producing right away. Gardening teaches a person patience.

Much of life is like gardening. Seeds are planted and then the waiting begins. It takes time to see life spring forth from our efforts. Maybe growth is slow and we just want to speed it up, but growth can't be rushed. We'll miss the beauty in the growing if we're just focused on the desired result. That's where so many of the little miracles take place- in the waiting and growing. We just need the eyes to see those miracles.

(herb & veggie garden markers available HERE & HERE)

Instagram "Seconds" SALE

My last instagram sale was such a hit that I'm hosting a "seconds" sale this afternoon! In the sale, you will find pieces with minor imperfections (small cracks, glaze defects, etc.) and old stock that needs to find a good, loving home in order to clear out some space in my office. The photo above shows some of the items that will be available.

Here's how it will work: At 4:00 pm EST, I'll list the first item and continue listing new items every few minutes. The first person to comment with their paypal email address gets the item. I'll then send you a paypal invoice which you must pay within 24 hours of receiving in order to claim your purchase (otherwise, it will go to someone else). 

Sounds easy enough, right? Last time, my earrings went fast- I was hardly prepared for the madness. So if you see something you like, you can't wait around or it will be gone.

Follow @nspottery to join in on the fun! Hope to see you there!

Well Building Update (almost there!)

At the beginning of the year, I pledged to give 20% of all proceeds from my business to build wells through Gospel for Asia. We almost have $1,000 to build one! We just need to raise $176 more and that big chunk of change will be going to make a lasting (and eternal) impact on many lives, and that blesses the mess out of me. Thank you SO MUCH for your support so far this year! I couldn't do this without your help.

To help reach our goal, visit the shop and help spread the word!

This & That

(Follow me on instagram @nspottery)

Last Sunday, I officially became a quarter of a century old. Not too sure how I feel about that, but life happens and I can't do anything to slow it down. I'm trying to enjoy every moment, every season, even if it's not exactly where I thought I'd be. Life is good, and I'm beyond blessed. Plus my family spoils me pretty good ;) I'm excited for a day out tomorrow with some of the ladies in my family. We're shopping around Amish country and eating at one of my favorite little restaurants (because we'll use any excuse to celebrate.)

I've been spending a lot of my time in the studio and outside in the garden this past month. I can't seem to keep up with latte mugs, which is good and bad, I guess :) I will have more ready to ship around June 15.

I'm also super excited to announce that I'm an ambassador for the Sashes Market at the 2013 Influence Conference along with my friends Rebecca and Melody! I did really well at the market last year & would definitely recommend applying for a space if you have a handmade shop & want to travel to Indianapolis this September. (More details here!) I would LOVE to meet you there :)